Satellite broadcaster Sky is to take on Apple's iTunes in the digital music marketplace, when it launches its new subscription-based music store later this month. While users of the service will be limited to one album download a month, music streaming will be ad-free and unlimited.

According to the Press Association, the new service, called Sky Songs, will enable customers to download up to 1 album, or 10 songs, for a Â£6.49 a month subscription fee. Although additional songs will cost 65p a track, the service will also allow ad-free streaming of music without any limitations.

The new service will also allow users to download songs for use on any MP3 player - something which iTunes does not allow.

Speaking about the coming launch of their new service, Sky's Chief Operating Officer, Mike Darcey, said, "Sky Songs will reach out to consumers who want legitimate digital services offering choice, ease of use and great value. Offering legal access to digital music is a vital step in combating illegal downloading."

Available from October 19th, the service will launch with a back catalogue of songs from major music labels including EMI, Sony, Universal and Warner, as well as over 100 independent labels.